Maradona led Argentina to victory at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico but he was a controversial appointment as coach in late 2008. He had little experience and had suffered various personal problems in the later years of his playing career and following his retirement.

He led Argentina to the World Cup thanks to a late winning goal in their final qualification match, against Uruguay.

In South Africa, Argentina looked serious contenders before meeting the Germans.

After that defeat, Maradona said: "I may leave tomorrow."±

However, he added: "We will see what happens. I haven't thought about leaving. I have to check that with my family and the players and there are things I have to consider."